Photographing Japan: A Conversation with Sherwin Magsino

A Q&A with our photography guide in Japan

Japan is a favourite among photographers for good reason. Beyond well-known landmarks, it’s the way light, season, and culture come together in everyday scenes that keeps people returning. Our new Colors of Japan Photo Tour is a journey designed for photographers ready to explore the shifting hues of fall across iconic sites like Mt. Fuji, Kyoto’s ancient temples, Nara’s serene parks, and Osaka’s vibrant streets. Led by experienced guides Sherwin Magsino and Cris Magsino, this small-group experience offers not just access to stunning locations, but a path to refine your craft amid Japan’s cultural depth and seasonal rhythms.

To give you a glimpse into what drives this adventure, here’s a Q&A with Sherwin on his photographic journey and why Japan continues to captivate.

Images by Sherwin Magsino

What got you into photography?

My creative journey actually started in illustration and graphic design. Visual storytelling has always been part of who I am – but back then, most of my work revolved around client briefs and commercial direction. Photography came in as an extension of that creativity. At first, it was simply curiosity, a way to create visuals outside the computer screen. But the more I traveled and experienced new places, the more I found myself drawn to landscapes.

Why landscape photography?

Coming from a graphic design background, most of my creative work was always guided by client direction. I had to follow briefs, meet expectations, and create based on someone else’s vision. Landscape photography became my avenue for creative freedom. It’s where I get to create for myself,  no rules, no limitations. It allows me to be fully me, to express what I feel and how I see the world through my own lens. Beyond the creative side, it also deepened my connection with nature. 

Landscape photography allows me to express my own vision, how I see light, mood, and scale. And at the same time, it deepens my connection with nature. Being out there teaches me patience and appreciation for moments you can’t control. 

Do you have any favorite destinations for photography?

I’m really drawn to destinations that offer diversity in both landscape and culture. China and Japan have always been favorites of mine. The variety you get there is incredible, from dramatic mountains and ancient villages to serene temples and seasonal colors.

More recently, Kenya has become a new favorite as well. The rawness of the wild, the wildlife behavior, and the golden African light bring a completely different kind of inspiration to my photography.

Can you describe what makes Japan such a good destination?

I love the diversity Japan offers, from its architecture and deep-rooted culture to its stunning landscapes. Everything feels very unique and distinctly Japanese. You can photograph centuries-old temples in the morning, modern cityscapes by afternoon, and quiet natural scenes by sunset. It also gives you the full four seasons. That alone makes every visit feel different. Spring brings the softness of sakura, summer is vibrant and full of life, autumn turns the landscapes fiery, and winter transforms everything into quiet minimal scenes. No two trips ever feel the same.

Beyond the visuals, the overall experience adds to the inspiration – how clean the country is, how respectful and warm the people are, and of course, the food.

Find out more about our upcoming trips to Japan

In terms of photographic opportunities, what can people expect?

A lot! Japan is incredibly rich when it comes to photographic opportunities. From architecture alone, you’ll already see the level of Japanese craftsmanship – from centuries-old temples and shrines to ultra-modern city structures. The attention to detail, symmetry, and design is something that’s very photogenic. 

You also have access to preserved old villages where you can photograph traditional wooden houses, narrow streets, and daily life that still reflects old Japan. The culture is very visual (geishas in Kyoto, local festivals, tea ceremonies, and people in traditional kimonos), and there’s always a cultural story to document.

And then of course, there’s nature. Japan’s landscapes are incredibly diverse, with iconic mountains like Mt. Fuji, bamboo forests, lakes, coastal cliffs, flower parks, and seasonal forests. Because Japan has four distinct seasons, the scenery keeps changing. 

What will people learn during the trip?

A lot of the learning goes beyond just camera settings. One of the biggest things participants will develop is visual storytelling — learning how to create images that don’t just show a place, but communicate a culture, or a moment. Another key takeaway is learning how to see more. Not just looking at a scene, but understanding light, layers, depth, foregrounds, and how elements interact within the frame. I guide participants on how to slow down, observe, and recognize compositions that others might miss.

And most importantly, I teach how to shoot with intention. Not just taking photos because you’re there, but understanding why you’re shooting a scene, what drew you to it, and how to translate that into a compelling image.

What equipment do you recommend?

1. Camera Body. Any camera you’re comfortable with will work, mirrorless or DSLR. Full-frame gives great dynamic range and low-light performance, but APS-C bodies are also excellent and lighter to carry.

2. Lenses (the essentials)
• Wide-angle (16–35 / 14–24 / 10–20) – perfect for landscapes, cityscapes, temples, forests, and dramatic skies.
• Standard zoom (24–70 / 18–55) – the most versatile lens for street scenes, architecture, and everyday shooting.
• Telephoto (70–200 / 55–250) – great for isolating details, compressing landscapes, and capturing distant subjects.

Optional but nice to have:
• Fast prime (35mm / 50mm) – for environmental portraits and low-light street moments.
• Macro lens – for close-up nature details (flowers, textures).

3. Tripod
A sturdy yet portable tripod is essential, especially for sunrise/sunset, long exposures, night scenes, and smooth panning.

4. Filters
• ND Filters for long exposures in daytime.
• Polarizer, to reduce glare, deepen skies, and enhance colors.

5. Accessories
• Extra batteries & charger
• Plenty of memory cards
• Lens cloths / blower
• Rain protection

6. Optional but helpful
• Laptop / tablet for quick reviews or editing on the road.
• Remote shutter release – useful for long exposures and timelapses.

About Sherwin Magsino

Sherwin is a Manila-based landscape and commercial photographer whose work is rooted in a lifelong interest in visual storytelling. He began his creative career in illustration and design before turning to photography, and over time his love of travel and the outdoors helped shape his focus on landscape imagery and narrative-driven work. Win is largely self-taught and has received recognition from both local and international organisations for his fine art landscape photography. He also serves as a brand ambassador for Fujifilm Philippines, Skylum, NiSi Filters Philippines, and other partners, and regularly leads workshops and tours that encourage other photographers to sharpen their craft and explore new ways of seeing.

Did we pique your interest?

Good! We’d love to have you join us on one of our upcoming photography tours in Japan. You’ll join Sherwin, and a small group of fellow photography enthusiasts, at the prime time of year to photograph fall colors. And it doesn’t matter what level you’re at – a total beginner or a seasoned photographer – because you get to work and improve at your own pace through personalized tutoring. Head to the trip’s page to read through the full itinerary and find out the nitty gritty of dates and rates. And if you have any questions, you know where to find us!

Check out an upcoming Kenya trip that Sherwin is also guiding